December.

Temperatures drop and rain showers turn to snow showers. It can be really beautiful out when there’s snow on our trees, but let’s not kid ourselves. We all know the roads get slippery, and black ice can be anywhere. So, why do some people drive the same way even when the roads are wet & icy? They are not driving defensively. If there was ever a time to do so, it’s when the roads are slick. Hopefully, you checked your tires before winter and have good tread on them. You may even drive an all wheel drive vehicle, but even after those additional precautions, remember to leave extra space between you and the car in front of you.  If you do start to slide on the ice or wet road, pump your brakes, don’t slam on them. Most of the new cars on the road are equipped with anti lock brakes, which helps a lot. Nevertheless, be mindful of what’s around you, so you can steer away from oncoming traffic if you start sliding.

Anticipate.

If you are heading down a hill that feeds into a busy intersection and its a wet or icy snow day, start stopping well before the intersection. Pack an emergency bag and throw it in the trunk. Include granola bars, blankets, flares, flashlights hand warmers, gloves, hat, water. That way, if you do get stuck in a blizzard, you can wait it out. But if that does happen, be sure  your exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow, that can lead to real problems.